Are there accessibility options when taking a bus from Madrid to Bilbao?

Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Madrid to Bilbao: Alsa Assistance Priority boarding Accessible seating. Alsa Supra Assistance Priority boarding Accessible restrooms. Infobus Assistance Priority seating Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.

What are the best sights in Bilbao?

Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Bilbao are: Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, a modern and contemporary art museum known for its innovative architecture by Frank Gehry Casco Viejo, the old town of Bilbao featuring narrow streets, historic buildings, and vibrant local markets Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, a museum housing a diverse collection of artworks from the Middle Ages to contemporary pieces Santiago Cathedral, a Gothic-style cathedral with a rich history dating back to the 14th century Zubizuri Bridge, a striking white arch bridge designed by Santiago Calatrava offering scenic views of the city.

What are the best things to do in Bilbao?

The best things to do in Bilbao include: Mount Artxanda, a scenic viewpoint accessible by funicular offering panoramic views of the city La Ribera Market, a vibrant market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and a lively atmosphere A walk along the Nervión River, providing a relaxing experience with beautiful views of the cityscape Enjoying pintxos, the Basque version of tapas, in one of the many local bars Exploring the Azkuna Zentroa, a cultural and leisure center housed in a former wine warehouse.

Can I cancel my bus ticket from Madrid to Bilbao?

Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Madrid to Bilbao depends on the bus providers: Alsa You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Changes allowed for a fee. Alsa Supra You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Within 48 hours, a fee applies. Infobus You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.

Is luggage included in the bus ticket price from Madrid to Bilbao?

Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Madrid to Bilbao: Alsa One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg. Alsa Supra One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg. Infobus One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).

Can I book additional luggage for the bus from Madrid to Bilbao?

Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Madrid to Bilbao: Alsa Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee. Alsa Supra Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee. Infobus 10€ per additional bag.

Can I bring my pet on board the bus from Madrid to Bilbao?

Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Madrid to Bilbao. The following conditions apply: Alsa Small pets allowed in carriers Larger pets must travel in the hold. Alsa Supra Small pets allowed in carriers Guide dogs travel for free. Infobus Small pets allowed in carriers Larger pets may require a separate ticket.

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The cheapest and fastest buses from Madrid to Bilbao

Showing times and prices for Jun 16

Cheapest price

$30

Average price

$52

Fastest journey

3 h 50 m

Average duration

3 h 56 m

Buses per day

Distance

323 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Madrid to Bilbao is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Madrid to Bilbao will cost around $52 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $30.

Fast buses

Of the 27 buses that leave Madrid for Bilbao on Mon, Jun 16, 26 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Jun 16 the direct buses cover the 323 km distance in an average of 3 h 56 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 50 m .

On Mon, Jun 16 the slowest buses will take 4 h and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

09:00AM4h10

Madrid

01:10PMBilbao

$301One-way

0 transfers

04:00PM4h00

Madrid

08:00PMBilbao

$331One-way

0 transfers

06:30PM3h50

Madrid

10:20PMBilbao

$331One-way

0 transfers

04:00PM4h00

Madrid

08:00PMBilbao

$351One-way

0 transfers

10:00AM4h10

Madrid

02:10PMBilbao

$351One-way

0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Madrid to Bilbao

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Bilbao among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €28. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 43m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg.

Compare bus with

Most popular Bus	Train	Flight
€48 Average price Cheapest	€57 Average price	€139 Average price
6h 26m Average duration 5h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	5h 13m Average duration Fastest 4h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	7h 57m Average duration 4h 57m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time*
0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions	0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest	1.0 - 1.9kg CO2 emissions
Direct Options	Direct Options	Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Madrid to Bilbao bus times

Showing buses for today, Sunday, June 15

Last updated at 3:30 AM

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
Normal	5:00 AM Madrid, Avenida de América	4h50	9:50 AM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Normal	6:00 AM Madrid, Avenida de América	4h45	10:45 AM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Supra Economy	7:00 AM Madrid, Avenida de América	4h25	11:25 AM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Normal	7:00 AM Madrid, Avenida de América	5h00	12:00 PM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Supra Economy	7:15 AM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)	4h10	11:25 AM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Normal	8:00 AM Madrid, Avenida de América	4h40	12:40 PM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Normal	8:30 AM Madrid, Avenida de América	5h00	1:30 PM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Normal · Normal	8:45 AM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)	5h15	2:00 PM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	1 transfer
Normal	9:00 AM Madrid, Avenida de América	4h55	1:55 PM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Normal	9:15 AM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)	4h40	1:55 PM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Normal	10:30 AM Madrid, Avenida de América	4h45	3:15 PM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Normal	11:00 AM Madrid, Avenida de América	4h45	3:45 PM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Normal	12:00 PM Madrid, Avenida de América	4h45	4:45 PM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Normal	1:00 PM Madrid, Avenida de América	4h45	5:45 PM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Normal	1:00 PM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses	5h15	6:15 PM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Supra Economy	1:00 PM Madrid, Avenida de América	4h10	5:10 PM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Normal	1:30 PM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)	4h45	6:15 PM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Normal	1:30 PM Madrid, Avenida de América	4h45	6:15 PM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Supra Economy	3:00 PM Madrid, Avenida de América	4h20	7:20 PM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Normal	4:00 PM Madrid, Avenida de América	4h45	8:45 PM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Normal	5:00 PM Madrid, Avenida de América	4h45	9:45 PM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Normal	5:15 PM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)	4h30	9:45 PM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Supra Economy	6:30 PM Madrid, Avenida de América	4h10	10:40 PM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Supra Economy	6:45 PM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)	3h55	10:40 PM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
FlixBus · FlixBus	6:50 PM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)	14h25	9:15 AM Bilbao, Calle Luis Briñas / Basurtuko Kaputxinoen kalea	1 transfer
Normal	8:00 PM Madrid, Avenida de América	4h45	12:45 AM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Normal	8:15 PM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)	4h30	12:45 AM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Monday, June 16
Supra Economy	12:00 AM Madrid, Avenida de América	4h10	4:10 AM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
Supra Economy	12:15 AM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)	3h55	4:10 AM Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses	0 transfersDirect
This is the last bus of the day.

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Journey information

Overview: Bus from Madrid to Bilbao

Spain

Buses from Madrid to Bilbao run on average 25 times per day, taking around 5h 56m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $34 (€28) but you can travel from only $23 (€19) by train.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Train from $23 (€19)

Distance

200 miles (322 km)

Average bus duration

5h 56m

Cheapest ticket price

$34 (€28)

Buses per day

Direct buses

Fastest bus

3h 55m

First bus

06:00

Last bus

22:45

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Train from $23 (€19)

Bus companies: Alsa, Alsa Supra and BlaBlaCar from Madrid to Bilbao

You can travel by bus to Bilbao from Madrid with Alsa, Alsa Supra and BlaBlaCar for as low as $34 (€28). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best trip.

Alsa is the main bus company in Spain, a subsidiary of the UK bus company National Express. Alsa offers a wide variety of national and international routes and transports more than 300 million passengers every year. Apart from the Standard fare, Alsa provides ticket types like Minimum, Reduced and Flexible fares on select routes for those looking to save money on bus journeys. While most travelers don’t mind traveling on normal buses with basic services like bathrooms, free WiFi, footrests and onboard entertainment, some others may want to check out Alsa’s deluxe buses like the Alsa Supra, Alsa Eurobus and Alsa Premium, which provide more luxurious amenities on specific routes.

Bus information from Madrid to Bilbao with Alsa:

Average Duration: 4 h 15 min
Cheapest Price: $34
Alsa frequency: 15 a day

Buses from Madrid to Bilbao

Buses in Spain are an affordable way to travel between cities. A number of bus companies offer domestic and international routes. Buses from Madrid to Bilbao are operated by Spanish provider, ALSA with up to 20 departures a day. The first bus leaves in the early hours of the morning, while the last departure at around 8:30 p.m. Buses from Madrid to Bilbao require a journey time of approximately 4 hours.

Madrid to Bilbao buses: Not what you're looking for?

Return buses from Bilbao to Madrid | Compare all modes of traveling from Madrid to Bilbao | Or learn more about buses to Bilbao

Madrid to Bilbao Bus Cost

Average prices for buses from Madrid to Bilbao when you book in advance

Booking Period	Average Price
Same Day	€31
1 Day in Advance	€31
1 Week in Advance	€31
2 Weeks in Advance	€31
1 Month in Advance	€31
3 Months in Advance	€31

Madrid to Bilbao Buses: General Information

While taking a bus is slower than both and train it is significantly cheaper and can take as little as 4 hours to arrive in Bilbao.

All Madrid to Bilbao buses are run by ALSA.
Most buses are direct, depart from Madrid's Intercam Av. America bus station and arrive at Bilbao bus station.
Traveling from Madrid to Bilbao by bus takes as little as 4 hours and 5 minutes to arrive in Bilbao.
Most travelers book their Madrid to Bilbao bus ticket 1 day in advance of the travel date.

Taking the Bus from Madrid

Buses from Madrid to Bilbao leave from the Intercambiador de Transporte bus station, located on Avenida de America, which has good local transport links by bus and metro to the rest of the city and the suburbs. Madrid's efficient and extensive transport network is supplemented by regular night bus routes. Taxis are also available at the bus station.

Getting into Madrid by Bus

Bilbao is a bustling port and the capital of Vizcaya in the Basque Region of Northern Spain and is situated on the tidal Nervión River. Bilbao enjoys a mild climate, more temperate than much of Spain and has become increasingly popular, with visitors enjoying the art and architecture of the modernist Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry. Other attractions are the Basque Museum and La Ria Maritime Museum. Bilbao's Old Town, or Casco Viejo, has seven streets full of interesting shops and cafes. Buses from Madrid to Bilbao arrive at the TermiBus Station, which is linked by tram to central Bilbao. Bilbao has plenty of public transport options, including a Metro line, frequent Bilbobus City buses, one EuskoTran tram line, and the BizkaiBus service which covers surrounding regions and coastal towns. Bilbao has a weekend night bus service, while taxis are also available at the station.

FAQs: Bus from Madrid to Bilbao

FAQs: Take the bus from Madrid to Bilbao with ease. Whether you want fast, cheap or something entirely different, our travel experts have the information you need to know so you can find the best option from Madrid to Bilbao.

Cheap bus tickets from Madrid to Bilbao can start from as little as $34 (€28) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Madrid to Bilbao is $59 (€48); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.

On average the Madrid to Bilbao bus travel time is 3 h 55 min for the 200 mile (322 km) long trip, but the duration can vary if you travel on weekends and holidays.

The first bus from Madrid to Bilbao leaves at 6: 00AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.

The last bus from Madrid to Bilbao leaves at 10: 45PM.

Yes, there are 24 direct buses a day from Madrid to Bilbao with Alsa. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.

When taking a bus from Madrid to Bilbao, you can count on Alsa, Alsa Supra, BlaBlaCar, Infobus, FlixBus or Empresa Municipal de Transportes for the best way to get you to Bilbao. You can also check all possible bus providers who offer a service to Bilbao from Madrid and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.

Passengers board the bus most frequently from Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses, which is located around 3.1 miles (5 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses, located 1.7 miles (2.7 km) away from the city centre.

A trip to Bilbao from Madrid is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3 h 55 min each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.

The cheapest month to travel from Madrid to Bilbao by bus is November.

You have options as you can travel from Madrid to Bilbao 3 different ways: train, bus or flight.

Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Madrid to Bilbao:

Alsa
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating.
Alsa Supra
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible restrooms.
Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.

Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Madrid to Bilbao for bus companies Alsa, Alsa Supra, Infobus and FlixBus.

Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Bilbao are:

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, a modern and contemporary art museum known for its innovative architecture by Frank Gehry
Casco Viejo, the old town of Bilbao featuring narrow streets, historic buildings, and vibrant local markets
Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, a museum housing a diverse collection of artworks from the Middle Ages to contemporary pieces
Santiago Cathedral, a Gothic-style cathedral with a rich history dating back to the 14th century
Zubizuri Bridge, a striking white arch bridge designed by Santiago Calatrava offering scenic views of the city.

The best things to do in Bilbao include:

Mount Artxanda, a scenic viewpoint accessible by funicular offering panoramic views of the city
La Ribera Market, a vibrant market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and a lively atmosphere
A walk along the Nervión River, providing a relaxing experience with beautiful views of the cityscape
Enjoying pintxos, the Basque version of tapas, in one of the many local bars
Exploring the Azkuna Zentroa, a cultural and leisure center housed in a former wine warehouse.

Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus companies Alsa, Alsa Supra, Infobus and FlixBus.

Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Madrid to Bilbao depends on the bus providers:

Alsa
- You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Changes allowed for a fee.
Alsa Supra
- You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Within 48 hours, a fee applies.
Infobus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.

To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Madrid to Bilbao, follow these tips:

Book in advance: Tickets are often cheaper when booked early.

Be flexible with dates and times: Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money.

Use our search filters: Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options.

Look for special deals or discounts: Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.

Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!

Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Madrid to Bilbao.

Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Madrid to Bilbao:

Alsa
- One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
Alsa Supra
- One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).

Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Madrid to Bilbao:

Alsa
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Alsa Supra
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.

Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Madrid to Bilbao. The following conditions apply:

Alsa
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- Larger pets must travel in the hold.
Alsa Supra
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- Guide dogs travel for free.
Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- Larger pets may require a separate ticket.

You can reserve your seat on the bus from Madrid to Bilbao with the following bus providers: Alsa, Alsa Supra, Infobus and FlixBus

Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Madrid to Bilbao with the following bus companies: Alsa, Alsa Supra, Infobus and FlixBus.

Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Madrid to Bilbao with the following bus companies: Alsa, Alsa Supra, Infobus and FlixBus.

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Madrid to Bilbao

Madrid

Bilbao

The major bus station for departures in Madrid is Madrid, Avenida de América. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Madrid, Avenida de América for your trip from Madrid to Bilbao.

Madrid, Avenida de América Wifi